Photo Story: Inside the SEPTA 30th Street Station Modernization Project

Drexel Station at 30th Street has a rich history dating back to 1955, when it opened its doors to serve the bustling city of Philadelphia. Over the decades, it has become a central hub for commuters, connecting them to various parts of the city and beyond. However, as Philadelphia grew and evolved, so did the need for a modernized and more efficient station. The recent transformation marks a significant milestone in the station’s history, creating a transit gateway that meets contemporary needs and enhances connectivity.

The SEPTA 30th Street Station, recently renamed Drexel Station at 30th Street under a new naming rights agreement between Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) and Drexel University, is adjacent to Amtrak’s William H. Gray III 30th Street Station. It is a key transit center connecting to the Amtrak, New Jersey Transit, and SEPTA networks. The station serves 25,000 daily users, including students from the neighboring University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University. Reconstruction work was funded in part through a $15 million U.S. Department of Transportation Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development grant and $34.2 million in Pennsylvania Department of Transportation funding.

The transformation of Drexel Station at 30th Street was made possible through notable collaboration between SEPTA, Drexel University, Brandywine Realty Trust, and other key stakeholders. This partnership brought together resources, expertise, and a shared vision to create a station that serves transit needs, improves mobility, and enhances the urban landscape. The project aimed to increase capacity, boost accessibility, and integrate seamlessly with the Schuylkill Yards development, making it a cornerstone of the area’s growth and innovation.

Step into Drexel Station at 30th Street, and you will immediately notice its striking features. The new glass headhouse and protective canopy at the primary entrance provide a radiant gateway. Upgraded elevators, escalators, and stairs ensure smooth and efficient movement within the station. The expanded mezzanine, boosted with enhanced lighting, offers an improved customer experience.

Adding to the clean, aesthetically pleasing environment, the project also included the installation of new flooring, wall tiling, and miscellaneous finish upgrades throughout the station. The integration of lively graphics, including mural walls, enhanced the station’s ambiance.

A key priority of the reconstruction was to improve accessibility, ensuring that everyone, regardless of mobility, can easily use the station. The station boasts multiple new elevators from street level to the mezzanine and platform levels, street-level curb ramps, and colorful wayfinding signage. These improvements are not just about compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) but also about establishing a modern, welcoming environment for all users. The station is SEPTA’s first to debut the SEPTA Metro Wayfinding Program.

The station also features upgraded communication and security systems, ensuring a safe and connected experience.

Sustainability and innovation were at the forefront of the station’s transformation. Energy-efficient LED lighting systems were installed throughout, supplemented by new column wraps that enhance the station’s aesthetics and provide additional lighting. Glass stairs, escalators, and elevator enclosures maximize the natural light, creating bright, inviting spaces. These design choices reflect a commitment to reducing environmental impact while improving the user experience.

The novel use of precast concrete floor panels with inset glass blocks allows natural light to illuminate the expanded mezzanine level, addressing the challenge of creating open, well-lit below-grade spaces. This enhances visibility and safety and contributes to the station’s contemporary aesthetic.

Drexel Station at 30th Street is more than just a transit hub; it catalyzes community and economic growth. The station’s improved infrastructure supports the ongoing development of University City and Schuylkill Yards, providing seamless connections to parks, residential areas, offices, and retail spaces. By enhancing mobility and accessibility, the station plays a crucial role in driving economic development and fostering a lively community.

The station serves as a gateway for the thousands of commuters, students, and visitors who pass through it daily, connecting them to the area’s educational, research, and business opportunities.

The reconstruction of the station had its challenges. The project began during the COVID-19 pandemic, significantly impacting material availability and construction schedules. However, our project team demonstrated resilience, finding alternative materials and methods to keep the project on track.

One major, unexpected hurdle included relocating the station communications room to clear sightlines on the mezzanine. The move was planned but faced complications due to undocumented systems. We worked closely with SEPTA and the electrical contractor to manage these challenges.

The construction was carefully sequenced to ensure minimal rider disruption, allowing the Market-Frankford Line and trolley lines to remain operational throughout the project. Temporary closures of certain entrances were managed efficiently, directing customers to other access points.

The newly reconstructed Drexel Station at 30th Street stands as a symbol of progress. It embodies the spirit of collaboration and community, offering a modern, accessible, and efficient transit hub for Philadelphia. Whether you are a daily commuter, a student, or a visitor, the station is designed to enhance your travel experience and connect you to the vibrant life of University City and beyond.

Ready to experience the new Drexel Station at 30th Street for yourself? Located at 3000 Market Street, between 30th and 31st Streets in the University City neighborhood of West Philadelphia, this underground station is next to Drexel University. It is served by the Market-Frankford Line, five trolley lines, the LUCY Loop, and multiple bus routes. With its seamless connections to regional rail at the nearby William H. Gray III 30th Street Station, getting around the city has never been easier.

We hope you enjoyed this virtual tour of Drexel Station at 30th Street. Visit the station to see these exciting changes in person!